Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
What Is the Best Remedy for Altitude Sickness?
Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026
- Descent is the best remedy for all the stages of altitude sickness. It means to go down to a lower altitude as swiftly and safely as possible.
- For mild headache, rest and over-the-counter pain killers may provide relief. Most of the symptoms will typically go away quickly at a lower altitude. Maintaining adequate water intake may help.
- Inhaling oxygen provides quick relief from symptoms. Some experienced climbers and hikers carry a portable oxygen chamber, called a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, with them. It is a body bag that is pumped full of air. On inflating, the bag increases the oxygen concentration. This allows the person in the bag with altitude sickness to breathe in more oxygen. This simulates going to a lower altitude.
- Having 70% of the diet as carbohydrates may also keep AMS at bay.
- A history of previous altitude sickness
- Residing at an altitude below 3,000 ft
- Presence of respiratory infections or diseases
- Obesity
- A rapid rate of ascent
- Over-exertion before the climb
- Alcohol consumption
- Taking sleeping pills